Cultural Gems in Asia with Elegant Resorts
A visit to Asia provides a thrill for the senses, with a rich source of culture, cuisine and adventure wooing a traveller, from colourful floating markets to deeply mysterious Temple complexes. With such a melting pot of fascinating nations, ancient archaeological sites, plus threads of colonial influences all vying for your attention, any visit to Asia is truly exhilarating. From beguiling China in the north, with its frenzied city life and vibrant arts scene in Shanghai, scenic lakes, mighty Yangzi River and ancient treasures of Beijing, to the contrasting cities of Siem Reap, Mumbai and Singapore, or the peaceful charm of Laos or spiritual Bali, you will discover ancient temples, dance, music and modern fusion cuisine, all of which will ignite and enrich your holiday experience.
Providing a fountain of inspiration for travellers, Thailand alone offers highlights such as iconic paddy fields, pristine jungle and remote villages in the north, a two-century old Grand Palace and vibrant city life in Bangkok, plus the strikingly beautiful limestone karsts to the far south. In stark contrast, only an hour’s flight away, one can literally step back in time when arriving in neighbouring Burma (Myanmar). With its manicured parks and glittering Schwedagon Pagoda in Yangon, to the crumbling ancient temples scattered across the deserted plains of Bagan, it is a mysterious land full of hidden treasures to discover.
A superb way to explore this continent is via luxury train, either within India or through Thailand and Malaysia. The Eastern & Oriental Express for example, allows those on board to pass effortlessly through borders and become wonderfully mesmerised by the changing landscapes. Alternatively, river boats, such as Belmond’s Orcella in Burma, allow those on board to fully experience the remarkable Ayeyarwady river life and access remote northern hill tribes via the Chindwin River. Further south, from Indo-China and Vietnam, visitors can traverse the Gulf of Tonkin exploring Halong Bay (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) aboard the luxury ship, Au Co.
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